MacAskill eulogy: Salmond's success unlikely to be repeated

His close friend and Alba Party colleague delivered the following eulogy:

“What can I say, what can anyone say? What words are appropriate, what words can possibly cover all that can be and needs said about Alex?

“A giant of a man, the leader of our country, the leader of our movement. An inspiration, a political genius, an orator, debater and communicator without parallel.

“The outstanding political figure in Scotland not just of his generation but for generations past and likely for generations to come.

“A man who through his lifetime efforts restored pride in our nation and took us close to his dream of independence. At ease on any national or international stage, whether with monarchs or political leaders, business or commerce, media or other professions. Never overawed and more often outshining all.

“At the same time in his element amongst his “ain folk” in Scotland’s cities, towns and villages. Chatting, joking, weaving his way through crowds, making folk smile and having fun.

“His campaigning style infectious, even if hugely frustrating for those managing the event or scheduling his diary.

“A very public figure, yet fiercely protective of his private life and Moira and the family.

Alba acting leader Kenny MacAskill. (Image: PA) “A cherished and loving husband, brother, uncle, friend to many and who many, many more revered.

“A true gentleman, great with children and young people, fun in private with wit, humour and a fount of stories regaling from world affairs to Scottish fitba’ and from Burns to Hollywood movies.

“But Alex wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth. Instead, very much the lad of pairts as the Burns he loved would have said.

“And as the Bard said:

“A Poet peasant born

Who more of Fames immortal dower

Unto his country brings

Than all her kings.”

“The elder son in a loving family. Growing up in a council house in Linlithgow, with his family part of the towns fabric, and where he was always delighted to say he came from.

“Proud to be a Black Bitch something which, in these politically correct times, has even seen an auld pub in Lithgae, renamed.

“But Alex saw the name, applying to those born in the town, as a badge of honour. Laughing at the pomposity of those with no knowledge of either history or community. The “unca guid” the Bard would say.

“For whilst always respectful of others’ views, he equally was conscious of history and tradition. Always saying it was his grandfather and tales he told of Scottish history which forged.

“"I recall him telling of the recovery of the Sapphire, a fishing vessel lost at sea where the families wished to bring their loved ones home from the deep. His eyes glistening whilst retelling efforts made and the impact upon so many. That was true commitment which few MPs or MSPs if any could replicate.

“Reaching commanding heights in Scottish politics, he could have replicated that success in any other career, such was his talent, intellect and work rate. Had he remained in banking with the RBS then he might well have been chief executive and the fate of that institution different to what befell it.

"Indeed, his former boss saying so and with obvious regret when Alex departed for the political fray. Top roles in banking and finance were open but he had a dream.

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“But politics wasn’t a career for him even if he excelled in its arts. He was committed to Scotland and independence spurning overtures to join other parties.... But he rejected them all.

"But he had a dream of what Scotland could be. And a strategy to achieve it. Building a party which then took office, and which so nearly won the referendum.

"Setting too with a will and the rest as they say is history. Leading a team of Ministers with no past experience and with no parliamentary majority. But his vision and deft handling ensuring an administration which was recognized even by opponents as credible, capable and competent. Reaping unprecedented electoral success in 2011, something unlikely ever to be repeated.

"Throughout that journey he was demanding but fair. Those working for and with him expected to perform at their peak and give their all. He expected no less but gave no less himself.

"He was also extremely loyal and supportive. When mistakes were made, he would defend vigorously even if harsh words were said in private.

“The real mark of the man shown by the crowds lining every town and village highway, and byway on his final journey home. Others had a role and were delighted to play a part, but it was always him in command and it wasn’t without its challenges.

"Terrorist attacks, international events and severe financial challenges all faced but all were overcome. The legacy he bequeathed is all around. From roads and bridges to rights such as free prescriptions and no tuition fees. That was him.

"So, farewell my friend when will we see your like again."